Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 22: Recapping - Principles of the Pastoral Ministry
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- Dec 10, 2025
- 2 min read
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 10 2025 | Acts 20:28
KEY VERSE: “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” (Acts 20:28, ESV)
MESSAGE:
The last two reflections on Acts 20 bring us into a recap of the timeless principles Paul lived by as he shepherded God’s people. Acts 20:28 draws our attention to something foundational: the Triune God takes a deep interest in His Church. God the Father sent the Son to die for the Church, and God the Holy Spirit appoints leaders to care for it.
Paul’s ministry in Ephesus shows how seriously he took that calling. He taught comprehensively and thoroughly. Acts 20:21-27 shows the scope, but even focusing on the content alone brings clarity. He preached repentance and faith in God (v 21)—two truths that shape genuine Christian life. If these are firmly taught and grasped, the local church becomes vibrant and strong.
Paul also ministered to both Jews and Gentiles. Acts 19:10 affirms that his work reached every group. He held nothing back. His methods were consistent and intentional. He taught publicly and privately, day and night, and used every available opportunity. His whole life was shaped around feeding the flock with the Word.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Caring for God’s Church carries weight. Pastors and leaders hold sacred responsibility. The principles drawn from Paul’s example remain relevant for every generation. Let us adopt them with humility for God’s glory and for the health of His people.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, help us embrace and apply proven ways that strengthen Your Church and honour Your name. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: OVERSEERS
The word overseers comes from the Greek episkopous, which means “one who watches over,” “guardian,” or “caregiver with responsibility.”
In Acts 20:28, this word shows that pastoral care is not casual. It is a calling given by the Holy Spirit, rooted in God’s desire to protect and build His Church. An overseer watches, guides, guards, and nurtures the flock with steady attention.
Reflect on this:
Let this remind you that caring for God’s people requires commitment, humility, and constant watchfulness. When leaders stay attentive, the Church remains healthy and strong.
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